Aim: How do we sketch the graphs of y=cscx, y=secx, and y=cotx?

In this lesson you will be able to graph the basic sec, csc, and cot graphs. these are very simple. Here's the rule: if you can graph basic sin, cos, and tan graphs, you will be able to graph csc, sec, and cot graphs.

Graph of basic csc

Graph of basic sec

Graph of basic cot

To begin graphing each one, you must graph a sin, cos or tan first. Once you have graph the sin, co or tan function, you draw your asymptotes and graph in the opposite direction. It's pretty easy after you have tried a few.


Sketch the graph of each funciton over one period. For each determine the domain and range

  1. y=csc x
  2. y= sec x
  3. y = cot x
  4. y = - sec x
  5. y = csc x/2
  6. y = sec 2x
  7. y = - cot x
  8. y = cot (x + pi/2)

Journal entry: Ramona claims that even though y = csc x and y = sin x are reciprocal functions, the graph y = csc x has more in common with the graph y = tan x that it does with y = sin x. Evaluate her statement and give evidence to support your judgment.